A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Monterey vs. Olympic National Park for Families, Backpackers, Attractions, and Food

Should you visit Monterey or Olympic National Park?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Monterey and Olympic National Park. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Monterey

Monterey is a relaxing, nature-oriented, and laid back city. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Monterey travel costs.

Olympic National Park

Olympic National Park is a stunning, vast, and pristine park. With stunning beauty, Olympic National Park attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the hiking and museums. See Olympic National Park travel costs.

Monterey and Olympic National Park: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Monterey or Olympic National Park?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Monterey. Although Monterey and Olympic National Park are both popular with visitors, Monterey has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Monterey is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and shopping, while Olympic National Park is known for its resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty. Monterey is popular for its rugged coastline, diverse marine life, and excellent seafood. It is also home to the Monterey Bay Aquarium. Olympic National Park is popular for its diverse landscapes and its frequent rainfall.

How is Monterey different from Olympic National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Olympic National Park and Monterey. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Monterey or Olympic National Park?

Monterey is a well-known place for its sights and museums. Also, Olympic National Park is not as famous, but is still a good park to visit for its museums and history.

Monterey offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The Monterey Bay Aquarium is a not-to-be-missed destination in town. You can also visit the Monterey State Historic Park or the Monterey Museum of Art.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Olympic National Park. There are several museums near the park that highlight the region's history, culture, and geology. These include the Makah Cultural & Research Center Museum, Forks Timber Museum, Sequim Museum, and Squaxin Island Museum, Library and Research Center.

Is the Food Better in Monterey or Olympic National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Monterey is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. However, Olympic National Park is not a good park for its restaurants.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Monterey. Seafood and local produce are what make the food special. There are many great restaurants to you can choose from that will let you enjoy the classic seafood dishes like clam chowder or oysters, as well as fresh artichokes and local wine.

Olympic National Park may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. Most of the lodges have restaurants within the park, but they can be overpriced. There are also restaurants just outside of the park's border.

Is Monterey or Olympic National Park Better for Nightlife?

Monterey is a well-known place for nightlife and partying. However, Olympic National Park is not a good park for its evening party scene.

Monterey offers plenty to do in the evening. There's a buzzing atmosphere at night with bars, breweries, and casual eateries all coming to life. Some of the best venues are found at the Old Fisherman's Wharf and along Alvarado Street.

Olympic National Park doesn't offer many options. You can enjoy a peaceful natural setting after the sun sets.

Is Monterey or Olympic National Park Better for Resorts?

Olympic National Park is a very popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Monterey is not a resort destination.

There are plenty of resorts in Olympic National Park to choose from. There are several lodges within the park as well as cabins and inns. Some have a historic atmosphere while others are more rustic. It's best to book well in advance, particularly if you're visiting during the peak summer months.

Monterey is not a resort destination.

Is Monterey or Olympic National Park Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Monterey is a popular place for its diving and snorkeling. However, Olympic National Park is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Monterey has a few good snorkeling spots. Scuba diving offers an unforgettable experience. The Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary gives you the unique experience of seeing sea lions, otters, kelp forests, crabs, and more.

Olympic National Park is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Monterey or Olympic National Park Better for Beaches?

Monterey is a popular place for the beach. However, Olympic National Park is not a beach destination.

Monterey is a good option for a beach vacation. The beaches highlight the laid by California vibe with sunbathers and beachgoers soaking up the atmosphere. There are both inlets and sandy beaches where you can see sea lions or explore the tidal pools.

Olympic National Park is not a beach destination. The park has a rugged coastline with sandy beaches. Many people enjoy exploring the tidal pools or watching the sun set. Some of the best beaches include Kalaloch Beach, Beach 4, and Ruby Beach.

Is Monterey or Olympic National Park Better for Hiking?

Olympic National Park is an amazing park to visit for its hiking trails. However, Monterey is not a hiking destination.

Olympic National Park is well-known for its hiking and trekking. Hiking trails will take you through the diverse range of landscapes. There are mountain climbs, coastal trails, and routes that wander through old growth forests. You'll also find a mix of day hikes and backcountry wilderness hikes. Mount Storm King, Marymere Falls, and the High Divide are favorite hikes in the park, but there are countless others.

Monterey is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Monterey or Olympic National Park?

Monterey is a well-known place for its shopping opportunities. However, Olympic National Park is not a good park for its shopping areas.

Monterey is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. You'll find both local vendors and tourist shops around town. Cannery Row is a popular destination, as is Old Fisherman's Wharf and the Old Farmer's Market.

Olympic National Park has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. There's a park store where you can pick up books, informational resources, and souvenirs.

Is Monterey or Olympic National Park More Beautiful?

Olympic National Park is a very popular place for its scenery and beauty. However, Monterey is not a destination known for its beauty.

With stunning beauty, Olympic National Park attracts visitors from all around. The diversity of landscapes give the park a unique beauty. You can explore old growth rainforests, wander down pristine beaches, or take in the stunning mountain views.

Monterey is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Monterey or Olympic National Park Better for Families?

Monterey is a must-visit destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Olympic National Park is not as famous, but is still a good park to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Monterey is a very family-friendly destination. Monterey Bay Aquarium is a highlight for kids and adults alike. There's also the Monterey Zoo as well as lighthearted activities like a mirror maze. MY Museum is an interactive museum that's perfect for younger kids. There are also whale watching trips and nearby beaches.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Olympic National Park. Kids will enjoy exploring the tidal pools and running around the beach. It's also fun to lose yourself in the old growth rainforests and spend some time kayaking or canoeing at Lake Crescent.

Is Monterey or Olympic National Park Better for Couples?

Monterey and Olympic National Park both superb destinations for a couple.

Monterey makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There are many romantic inns in town as well as quaint restaurants and fun activities. There are also spas, wine bars, and plenty of shopping for couples to enjoy as well.

Couples visit Olympic National Park frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Couples who enjoy hiking, camping, and natural beauty will love exploring this park together. There are a diversity of ecosystems and landscapes where you can enjoy a couples retreat together.

Is Monterey or Olympic National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Olympic National Park is an amazing park to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Monterey is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Olympic National Park, as it is a very popular park for budget travelers. There are many beautiful backcountry destinations that let you experience this park in depth. Make sure you purchase a permit in advance.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Monterey. There's a hostel in town as well as fun activities that will appeal to backpackers.

Is Monterey or Olympic National Park Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Visitors will find decent public transit in both Monterey and Olympic National Park.

Public transit is mostly limited in Monterey. There is a bus system through the area.

Public transit is generally limited in Olympic National Park. There are buses and ferries to the park, but the park is large and requires a private vehicle to fully access it.

Is Monterey or Olympic National Park a more walkable city?

Monterey is a well-known place for its high level of walkability. However, Olympic National Park is not a good park for its ease of walking around.

Monterey is a very walkable city. If you stay near the town center, it's very walkable and easy to get around on foot.

Olympic National Park is not a very walkable city. The park is large and you'll need a car to reach most of the trailheads.

For even more information, also check out Is Monterey Worth Visiting? and Is Olympic National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Olympic National Park or Monterey?

How long in Monterey or Olympic National Park?

In either Monterey or Olympic National Park, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Olympic National Park than Monterey because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Monterey, and 2-5 days is enough time in Olympic National Park.

Families should spend more time in Monterey than Olympic National Park. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Monterey, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Monterey than Olympic National Park. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Monterey that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Monterey than Olympic National Park if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Monterey.

One day in Monterey or Olympic National Park?

In Monterey, you'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping. Anyone can find something fun to do here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Monterey, one day is sufficent for most.

The beautiful park of Olympic National Park offers museums. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Monterey or Olympic National Park?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Monterey. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city. It offers something for everyone.

Olympic National Park is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this park makes for a great vacation. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Olympic National Park, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Monterey or Olympic National Park?

Monterey is a fun place to experience. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Olympic National Park is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Olympic National Park, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Monterey or Olympic National Park?

You'll find nightlife and food around the laid back destination of Monterey. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Olympic National Park is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This park offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours in United States of America, The Best 3-Week Tours in United States of America, The Best Bicycle Tours in United States of America, and Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United States of America.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Monterey and Olympic National Park, we can see that Monterey is more expensive. And not only is Olympic National Park much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Olympic National Park would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Olympic National Park and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Monterey would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Monterey than you might in Olympic National Park.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Monterey Expensive? and Is Olympic National Park Expensive?.

When is the best time to visit Monterey or Olympic National Park?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Monterey or Olympic National Park in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Monterey as well as Olympic National Park. The beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Monterey this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Olympic National Park for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Monterey is generally a little warmer than Olympic National Park. Daily temperatures in Monterey average around 63°F (17°C), and Olympic National Park fluctuates around 60°F (15°C).

Monterey usually gets less rain in July than Olympic National Park. Monterey gets 0 inches (1 mm) of rain, while Olympic National Park receives 2.8 inches (70 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Monterey or Olympic National Park in the Autumn?

Both Olympic National Park and Monterey are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Monterey for the shopping scene. Also, many visitors come to Olympic National Park in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Monterey is much warmer than Olympic National Park in the autumn. The daily temperature in Monterey averages around 62°F (17°C) in October, and Olympic National Park fluctuates around 51°F (10°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Olympic National Park. In October, Monterey usually receives less rain than Olympic National Park. Monterey gets 0.6 inches (14 mm) of rain, while Olympic National Park receives 10.4 inches (263 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Monterey or Olympic National Park in the Winter?

Both Olympic National Park and Monterey during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Monterey in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Olympic National Park for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Olympic National Park can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Monterey is much warmer than Olympic National Park. Typically, the winter temperatures in Monterey in January average around 51°F (11°C), and Olympic National Park averages at about 41°F (5°C).

Olympic National Park gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Monterey usually gets less rain in January than Olympic National Park. Monterey gets 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain, while Olympic National Park receives 13.7 inches (349 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Monterey or Olympic National Park in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Monterey and Olympic National Park. Most visitors come to Monterey for the beaches during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Olympic National Park because of the natural beauty.

In April, Monterey is generally much warmer than Olympic National Park. Daily temperatures in Monterey average around 56°F (13°C), and Olympic National Park fluctuates around 47°F (8°C).

Olympic National Park receives a lot of rain in the spring. In April, Monterey usually receives less rain than Olympic National Park. Monterey gets 1.1 inches (29 mm) of rain, while Olympic National Park receives 7.4 inches (189 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Olympic National Park and Monterey